Cultural Sensitivity Guide for Professional Communication Cultural competence can be defined as using one's awareness, attitude, knowledge and ability to interact effectively with the many cultural differences of a patient. Madeline Leininger, a pioneer of transcultural nursing, describes it this way; “a formal area of ​​study and practice focused on the comparative differences in human care and the similarities of cultures' patterned beliefs, values, and lifestyles to provide culturally congruent, meaningful, and beneficial health care to people” (Barker, 2009, p. 498). The importance of cultural diversity in healthcare helps ensure adequate cultural autonomy. Showing respect for others will lead to trust between nurse and patient which in turn improves healing and health. The purpose of this document is to educate the advanced practice nurse (APN) about Navajo culture and how to effectively communicate holistic care to the Navajo Indian population. Recently, while at work, Tara, who works in the records department, began discussing alternative treatments for medical problems, referring to her father as a healer. Fascinated, I engaged her in conversation to help educate me on her interesting culture. Article Summary With a proud, rich, and distinct inspirational heritage, Native Americans are one of the oldest minority groups in the United States (US). The Navajo Indian Nation (as the tribe calls itself) or Dineh (the people) is the largest Native American tribe in North America. Known as great warriors, the Navajo “grew corn, beans, and squash called Nabaju, (original name for Navajo) which translated means 'large planted fields'” (“thinkquest.org” n.d., p.1-2). Coming... halfway across the page... of the population we serve. Works Cited Barker, A. M. (ed.). (2009). Advanced practical nursing Essential knowledge for the profession. Sudbury, MA: Jones and Bartlett. Catore, J. A. (2010). Earth, Wind, Fire and Water [Online Exclusive]. MinorityNurse.com. Retrieved from http://www.minoritynurse.com/cultural-competence/earth-wind-fire-and-waterMcCauley, M.M. (2004, December). Going far for American Indians. Nursing2004, 34(12), 46-47.Mercer, S. O. (1996, March). Navajo elders in a reservation nursing home: Predictors of admission and cultural care practices. Social Work, 41(2), 181-189.O'Brien, B.L., Anslow, R.M., Begay, W., Pereira, S.A., & Sullivan, M.P. (47-57). Fall. Nursing Administration Quarterly, 26(5), 47-57. The Navajo people. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://library.thinkquest.org/J002073F?thinkquest/Navajo_people.htm?tql-iframe